The Cape Navigator

In a landmark decision, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has asserted its jurisdiction to rule on a case brought by South Africa, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. The interim ruling, issued today, has ordered Israel to take immediate measures to prevent genocidal acts, curb public incitement to genocide, and ensure the swift provision of humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza.

The ICJ’s decision comes as a result of South Africa’s unprecedented move, aligning itself with only The Gambia, in taking such a case to the international tribunal. The court ordered Israel to preserve evidence of genocide and submit a compliance report within one month.

The European Union (EU) has swiftly reacted to the ICJ’s interim ruling, emphasizing that the court’s orders are binding on the parties involved, with a clear expectation for their “full, immediate, and effective implementation.” The EU’s stance adds international weight to the significance of the ICJ’s decision.

Human rights organization Amnesty International has hailed the ICJ’s order as an “important step” in protecting Palestinians from further suffering. The organization stressed the urgent need for effective, unified pressure on Israel to halt its military campaign in Gaza. Amnesty’s secretary general, Agnes Callamard, emphasized that an immediate ceasefire by all parties remains essential.

British human rights lawyer Geoffrey Nice, commenting on the ICJ’s ruling, pointed out that Israel now faces a difficult position. Refusal to comply with the court’s orders may draw widespread condemnation, potentially influencing public sentiment against Israel.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation from Pretoria, expressing the expectation that Israel would abide by the World Court’s verdict. He called for concerted efforts towards a ceasefire, emphasizing that South Africans will not be passive bystanders in the face of crimes perpetrated against others.

The ICJ’s interim ruling places Israel at the center of international attention, highlighting the urgency of addressing the alarming signs of genocide in Gaza and the need for immediate and effective measures to alleviate civilian suffering. The global community awaits Israel’s response and the subsequent developments in this historic case.

LIVE development of the court proceeding via Aljazeera.